Smith relieved after Adelaide victory

cricket365

3 months ago

After beating England in the second Ashes Test in Adelaide, Australia captain Steve Smith admitted he was relieved to come away with a victory after he decided not to enforce the follow-on on the third day.

Smith faced some criticism for not opting to make the tourists bat again after England were faced with 215-run deficit after the first innings.

Australia were then bowled out for just 138 in their second innings, setting England a target of 354 which they looked on track to get when they were 169/3 and Joe Root still at the crease.

The hosts however recovered and wrapped up the game early on day five, winning by 120 runs, much to Smith’s relief thanks to Mitchell Starc’s five-wicket haul.